Cetirizine is a selective antihistamine used to relieve allergic rhinitis (seasonal allergy) symptoms including sneezing, runny nose, itching, and watery eyes. It is also used to treat people with idiopathic urticaria.
Summary of Interactions with Vitamins, Herbs, and Foods
In some cases, an herb or supplement may appear in more than one category, which may seem contradictory. For clarification, read the full article for details about the summarized interactions.
| Depletion or interference | None known |
| Side effect reduction/prevention | None known |
| Supportive interaction | None known |
| Reduced drug absorption/bioavailability | None known |
| Adverse interaction | None known |
An asterisk (*) next to an item in the summary indicates that the interaction is supported only by weak, fragmentary, and/or contradictory scientific evidence.
Interactions with Foods and Other Compounds
Food
Cetirizine may be taken with or without food.1
Alcohol
Selective antihistamines, including cetirizine, may cause drowsiness or dizziness, although it is less likely than with nonselective antihistamines.2 Alcohol can intensify drowsiness and dizziness, increasing the risk of accidental injury. People taking cetirizine should use alcohol only with caution.
References
1. Threlkeld DS, ed. Respiratory Drugs, Antihistamines. In Facts and Comparisons Drug Information. St. Louis, MO: Facts and Comparisons, May 1998, 194c.
2. Threlkeld DS, ed. Respiratory Drugs, Antihistamines. In Facts and Comparisons Drug Information. St. Louis, MO: Facts and Comparisons, May 1998, 194c.
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2006-09-07
